How Do Extended-Spectrum Penicillins Work?

Extended-spectrum penicillins are a group of semi-syntheticpenicillinantibiotics that, because of their chemical structure, have a wider spectrum of activity than natural penicillins, penicillinase-resistant penicillins, and aminopenicillins. They are strongly effective againstgram-negativebacterialinfections.

Extended-spectrum penicillins work by inhibiting bacterialcellwallsynthesis(cell walls are necessary to protect thebacteriafrom theirenvironmentand keep the contents of the cell together) by attacking the peptidoglycans (a mesh-like structure that increases the strength of the cell wall) leading to the bursting of the bacteria and eventually itsdeath.

Extended-spectrum penicillins are used to treat:

• Sepsis(life-threatening illness caused by your body’s response to aninfection)
• Skininfections
• Lowerrespiratoryinfection
• Urinary tract infection
• Intra-abdominalinfections
• Secondaryperitonitis(inflammationof the abdominal wall)
• Infection caused by burns

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness(feeling weak/unsteady)
• Skinrash
• Abdominal cramps
• Flatulence
• Hypersensitivity reaction (rash,fever, andeosinophilia—increased number of eosinophilsintheblood)
• Painand redness at the site of injection
• Heartburn

Other rare side effects include:

• Thrombocytopenia(low bloodplatelet count)
• Seizures (sudden uncontrolled electrical disturbance in thebrain)
• Anaphylaxis(severe allergic reactions)
• 性肾炎(inflammation of the cells of thekidney)
• Leukopenia(reduced number of white blood cells)
• Anemia
• Neutropenia(low levels of neutrophils)
• Shortness of breath

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Drug names include:

• Piperacillin
• Piperacillin/tazobactam
• Pipracil
• Ticarcillin/clavulanate
• Timentin
• Zosyn